Stuart Canvas acquires AJ Bennett

Stuart Canvas, the UK’s leading provider of sports ground and industrial covers, has acquired AJ Bennett as the company looks to increase its production capacity and extend its range of services into new and diverse marketplaces. The announcement is in line with Stuart Canvas’ strategy to grow the business though organic expansion and targeted acquisitions.

“AJ Bennett is a great fit for our business as it consolidates our market position as a leading provider of industrial covers and allows us to expand our production capabilities. The acquisition is a key part of our strategy which will see us look to ambitiously grow our business through organic expansion and acquisition,” commented Ed Stoddart, Chief Executive of Start Canvas.

Greater production capacity

AJ Bennett, headquartered in St Helens, was established in 1980 and has grown to be one of the North West’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of trailer curtains, tarpaulin covers, factory screens and load restraint equipment.

The company, which boasts clients such as Jaguar Landrover, Carlsberg and Pilkington Glass also offers bespoke industrial tarpaulins and an on-site repair service which compliments Stuart Canvas’ existing offer and extends the business into new areas.

The acquisition will offer Stuart Canvas greater production capacity as the company looks to keep up with demand for its covers and tarpaulins. In addition, the two businesses have complimentary customer bases and provide an opportunity for the two businesses to cross sell products to each other’s customers.

Strong and sustainable

The agreement will see Stuart Canvas purchase AJ Bennett for an undisclosed sum and the management of both businesses work together on building a strong and sustainable business that operates in both a national and international markets.

“Working together we are be able to provide our customers with an improved service and capabilities which in turn will allow us to achieve greater market share. I’m excited by this opportunity and look forward to joining the Stuart Canvas team,” said Tony Bennett, managing director at AJ Bennett.

Stuart Canvas is the UK’s leading manufacturer of sports ground covers, canvas covers and haulage covers. Established in 1971, the company has over 45 years of experience in manufacturing PVC and cotton covers for both the sports and industry. The company also produces covers tailored to suit individual requirements of size and weight, for military, commercial and leisure use.